23 June 2017
NHS Borders, Scottish Borders Council (SBC) and Borders College worked together in 2016 to introduce Project SEARCH in the Borders. Twelve months later, the first intake of interns have successfully completed the program. To mark the occasion a graduation ceremony was held on Tuesday 13th June at the Borders College Campus.
During the course of the one year program, eight interns completed work experience rotations in various settings within the Borders General Hospital including Catering, General Services and Radiology. Through this internship individuals have acquired competitive, transferable and marketable job skills as well as gained independence, confidence, and self-esteem.
Elaine Torrance, Chief Officer Health and Social Care Integration, said: “A big congratulations must go to our interns who have successfully completed their internships. We have thoroughly enjoyed having them work with us throughout the Borders General Hospital.
“Young people with a learning disability face many barriers to employment and Project Search has been highly successful in being able to deliver opportunities throughout Scotland. It is fantastic that we are now able to offer a series of good quality internships to young Borderers.”
For more information about Project SEARCH visit: http://www.projectsearch.us/.
Alternatively, contact Joan Cairney at Borders College on 01896 662519.
